Description
A rare, early, fully restored 18ct vintage Rolex Precision 36mm ‘Oversize’ gentleman’s dress watch in immaculate condition from 1951. Rolex Precisions were produced in several sizes in the 1950s, starting at 30mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The majority were 32 and 33mm, with some 34mm. Very rarely, Rolex or their UK case-makers produced oversized 35mm models and even rarer 36mm models, such as the example we see here. These are highly sought after watches because the seemingly small difference in size does add significantly to the ‘presence’ and value of the watch. The ivory-cream dial with the popular 1 – 12 standard Arabic numerals also add to the desirability of this watch, particularly when found on a watch in such superb condition, and in the much rarer 18ct gold. Having recently completed a full restoration by ourselves, this watch is now ready for many more years of faithful service.
The Dial
The wonderful original classic dial with raised gilt 3, 6, 9, 12, numerals mixed with ‘teardrop’ hour indices is one of our most popular and sought after dial designs. The original period ‘leaf’ hands and blued steel centre seconds hand, complete the unmistakable period look and charm of this watch.
The dial has been faithfully and sympathetically restored in the original ivory-cream. This slightly changes colour depending on the ambient light, as we have tried to demonstrate in the photographs.
The lens is a new original part, fitted as part of the restoration.
This is the original dial which has been sympathetically restored to the very highest standards by our dial restorers, considered to be the best in the UK. This makes this is as fine a vintage dial restoration as you are likely to see.
The Movement
The watch carries its original high-grade Rolex Calibre 710, 15 Jewel movement, which as can be seen in the photographs, is in spectacular condition.
The movement has been completely disassembled, cleaned, inspected and rebuilt using original Rolex parts where required, by our vintage Rolex specialist watchmaker and when tested and calibrated immediately following its restoration, this watch was running to within 5 seconds per day which is outstanding for a vintage watch of this age!
The movement is all correctly signed ‘ROLEX’, ‘SWISS MADE’ and ‘15 Rubis’, with the Calibre number 710 and the movement reference number 880. These movements are strong, accurate and very reliable making the watch appropriate for regular everyday use. This particular movement is in top condition and with regular servicing, every 3 years, we would fully expect this watch to run very happily for many more decades to come!
The Case
The substantial 18ct gold, wide bezel case, measures 36mm in diameter, not including the original signed Rolex crown, making this one of the very rare, largest Rolex Precisions. This is also a rare 18ct example as the majority of the examples sold in the UK were made in 9ct gold.
The watch case is in immaculate condition and even the case-back looks pristine. No matter how closely you examine the case it shows no signs of anything more than very light and careful use.
Inside the case-back, the markings are all correct and as expected, signed ‘Dennison’, ‘Made in England for Rolex’. Dennison was one of the two top UK case-makers who made cases for Rolex, the other being D. Shackman & Sons. In addition, the case-back carries two reference numbers, 13874 and 385766, along with Birmingham UK 18ct hallmarks, which date this watch to 1951.
This watch case has been exceptionally well cared for and so after careful inspection, it has simply required a clean and gentle hand-polish to bring it back to its current ‘like new’ condition.
As ever, our standard advice applies: vintage watches should be kept clean and dry at all times.
The Strap & Buckle
A new brown Crocodile strap has been fitted, along with a plain gold plated buckle.
The Box and Papers
Although there are no original papers with this watch, the reference numbers, markings, signatures and hallmarks are all correct, dating this watch to 1951.
The matching Rolex presentation box as shown in the photographs is included in the sale.
In Conclusion
This is a truly first-class example of a 1951 vintage Rolex Precision which is ready to wear and completely practical for everyday use. If treated with care, it will make an excellent investment or heirloom piece and even though vintage gold Rolex prices have risen markedly recently, we still feel good examples such as this are still undervalued. As each year goes by and the world market for vintage gold Rolex watches continues to expand, prices will continue to climb ever higher.
To summarise, this is a highly collectable vintage watch from horology’s most famous name, which is ready to wear, use, treasure and enjoy, providing excellent reliability and a sound financial investment, as long-lasting as the watch itself!